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BRIDGEPORT ART TRAIL NEWSLETTER
Welcome to our Bridgeport Art Trail newsletter, providing a listing of arts and cultural events.
February comes to a close with several arts and cultural events in our active city. Then, mark your calendars for exciting programming in March.
This week Bridgeport’s City Lights Gallery opens the exhibition “Never Done” in their temporary location on Thursday, February 25th. The exhibit features Bridgeport artists manifesting the ‘work’, spirit and unending potential of Black women through painting and photography. Also on the 25th, the Black Rock Branch Library presents “A Celebration of Black History Month” with special guest speakers and a panel discussion.
Music fans, don’t miss a R&B and Soul concert at The Klein and record collectors WPKN hosts their annual Music Mash on March 5th. The Downtown Cabaret Theatre also brings “Evita” to the stage! Plus, an estate sale at Black Rock Galleries, Rick Reyes at The Bijou Theatre, and more!
ARTISTS, take part in the latest CALLS FOR ART including a recycled art contest and digital art exhibit!
We’re also excited to feature the Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative (MDAC) as our Arts Organization of the Month for February!
Located in the Read’s Artspace building in downtown Bridgeport, MDAC provides unique programming that assists individuals with disabilities in creative exploration, self-discovery and expansive artistic growth using: Mixed Media, Visual Media, Painting, Music, Dance, Yoga and more!
The Kennedy Center’s Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC) and the Bijou Theatre are recipients of a Regional Initiative Grant to spearhead a Bridgeport EarthFest celebration.
Bridgeport EarthFest 2016 will will bring all sectors of the community together to learn, experience and celebrate Earth Day through various art forms.
Learn more about this organization and the EarthFest programming including a Recycled Art Contest as part of our feature profile.
Details below!
Visit the full calendar of Bridgeport Art listings at the Bridgeport Art Trail Website. |
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LACE – 1980s : Photography by Adger Cowans
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VISUAL ART: “NEVER DONE” Exhibition Opening
Thursday, February 25, 2016, 5:30-8:00 pm
Opens at City Lights’ Temporary Home 855 Main St.
Downtown Bridgeport, CT
After 12 years the City Lights have gone out at 37 Markle Court.
But the lights are kindling just a block away at 855 Main St. Our swanky temporary new digs are located across the street from the main branch of People’s United Bank, a landmark designed by Richard Meier. Construction is underway for a more permanent space at 1103 Main St. We are looking forward to adding some new life to the block between Fairfield Ave. and Elm St. Hopefully that move will take place in warmer weather!
Arctic temperatures and 12 years of stuff did not deter the City Lights crew who are preparing the former gas company location for business as usual and a new exhibit called “NEVER DONE” opening February 25, 2016.Thank you to the City Lights board of directors and landlords Spinnaker and Forestone. Words cannot express the gratitude for the helping hands of Steve Gerber, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Robin Jopp, Jody Strmiska, Judy Rozarie, Jan and Bernie Jacobs, Robert Davies and John Farwell.
“NEVER DONE” February 25-March 25, 2016
OPENING RECEPTION:
Thursday, February 25th 2016, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Free and Open to the Public
City Lights Gallery
855 Main St.
Downtown Bridgeport, CT 06604
www.citylightsgallery.org
(203)334-7748
“NEVER DONE”
Manifestations of the Beauty, Inspiration and Constant Strength of Black Women. The saying reminds us that “Women’s work is never done” The work to love, fight for social justice, actualize spiritual building and leadership, to nurture our families and create joy is never done. This exhibit features the work of Bridgeport artists manifesting the ‘work’, spirit and unending potential of Black women through painting and photography by Adger Cowans, Alicia Cobb, Janelle Gordon, Jefferine Jean-Jacques, Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Olivier Kpognon, Shanna Melton.
Also featured is the fabric art by Bridgeport’s Gees Bend quilters: Eula Mosley, Sandra Pettway, (Bridgeport, CT) Rosie Pettway,(Brooklyn, NY) Betty Bendolph, Lucy Pettway Joanna Pettway, Mary Bendolph (Gees Bend)
ARTISTS’ TALK: Thursday, March 24, 2016 5:30-8 p.m Events are free and open to the public.
Thank you to Shanna Melton for assistance with curation on this exhibit.
More Info
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SPECIAL EVENT: Black History Month – Past, Present & Future
Thursday, February 25th, 6:30-8:30pm
Black Rock Branch Library
EVENT DESCRIPTION: A Celebration of Black of Black History Month.
Special Guest Speakers: State Senator Marilyn Moore, Retired Bpt Police Lieutenant David Daniels, Producer Cheri L. Humphrey, Playwright/Artist Francis Pressley, Community Activist, Kingsley Osei, Author, Harry Bell, Author/Community Organizer, M.L. Brooks
Panel Discussion on: Violence in our community, Racism in America today, Voting rights, Police Brutality, How to build our future
Celebrate, Create Awareness, Bridge the Divide, Unite and Effect Change.
“Black History is Human History” author M.L. Brooks.
All are invited – Free food & beverages provided.
More Info
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SPECIAL EVENT: Fairfield County Multi-Estate Auction
Wednesday, February 24th, 7:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Black Rock Galleries
A wonderful eclectic collection of furniture and decorative items from local estates with the addition of wonderful craft tools and accessories. Take some time and browse through this fun sale!
http://www.blackrockgalleries.com/sales/details/fairfield-county-multi-estate-auction-102.html
Pickup Location: BRG Bridgeport
1720 Fairfield Ave; Bridgeport CT 06605
Pick Up: Thursday, February 25th through Saturday, February 27th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More Info
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SPECIAL EVENT: WPKN’s “MUSIC MASH ‘16”
Read’s Ground Floor Gallery
Saturday March 5, 2016, 8AM-6pM
EVENT DESCRIPTION:
What is MUSIC MASH ‘16?
MUSIC MASH ’16 is a Record Fair produced by nonprofit, community radio station WPKN 89.5-FM. It has a bit more sizzle than the traditional record fairs–MUSIC MASH ’16 presents 50+ vendors from all over New England selling vinyl LP’s, 45’s, CD’s and music collectibles. There will be LIVE music and WPKN 89.5-FM and celebrity DJ’s spinning discs as well food and drink options. It is our third annual event.
When is it and where is it?
Saturday, March 5th, 2016 at the Read’s Artspace, located in downtown Bridgeport, at 1042 Broad Street. This former department store, features a well-lit massive gallery site on the entire ground floor. The location is a 5-minute walk from Metro North (convenient for New York City, and New Haven), and a 3-minute cab ride from the Port Jefferson Ferry terminal in Bridgeport.
Parking is Available:
FREE indoor parking will be available at the Peoples Bank indoor parking garage with access to the lot from Water Street (across from the Metro North train station). And FREE street parking in downtown Bridgeport on Saturdays! There’s also a parking lot across from Read’s Artspace.
Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM.
What is the Admission: Early Bird hours are from 8 AM to 10 PM. These tickets are $15 and allow first viewing of what is for sale. For many that’s a BIG deal. From 10 AM to 5:30 PM admission is $6 for adults, $5 for students. Children under 12 years old are FREE.
Who is selling?
We are working through Record Riots, a group who own and operate record shows in Philadelphia, Jersey City, New Haven and Brooklyn. We have 50+ of the top dealers in New England specializing is all types and formats (vinyl LP’s, 45’s, CD’s) of music from Jazz, Rock, Blues, World, Motown, New Wave, Reggae, Punk, Ephemera, Soul, Disco, Surf, Country, Rockabilly, R&B and more. Also, there are vendors selling books, posters, artwork and other collectibles. Prices will range from $1 to $1,000. WPKN-FM has several thousand gifted LP’s and CDs to sell as well.
Dining Discount: 15% discount all day if you dine downtown @ either Tiago’s, Toni’s Tuscan Table, Moe’s Burger, Barnum Publick House, Trattoria ‘A Vucchella, Martini Bar @ The Holiday Inn, Leisha’s Bakeria, Fruta Juice Bar or Two Boots.
More Info
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LIVE MUSIC: Darius Murrell Presents: Will Downing, Chante Moore, and Vivian Green LIVE in Concert!!
Friday, March 4, 2016 @9:00PM
The Klein – 910 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06605
Description of Event: Over the course of his 27-year career Will Downing has unquestionably become a living example of the absolute best that smooth R&B and Soul has to offer. On Friday March 4th at 9pm The Klein in Bridgeport will welcome this Grammy-nominated artist for his first ever appearance at the historic 1,447-seat performing arts center. Mr. Downing will be joined on stage by singers Chante Moore and Vivian Green, who is also a Grammy Nominated artist.
More Info
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LIVE THEATRE: Evita
March 11 – March 26
Downtown Cabaret Theatre
Event Description:
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Director: Eli Newsom
Musical Director: Clay Zambo
Choreographer: Emily Frangipane
Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, EVITA tells Eva Peron’s passionate and unforgettable meteoric rise from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady. Adored by her people as a champion for the poor, she became one of the most powerful women in the world — while her greed, outsized ambition and fragile health made her one of the most tragic. The musical spawned a hit film featuring Madonna and features some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” and “High Flying, Adored.”
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LIVE MUSIC: Rick Reyes & Novela Sin Tiempo
Saturday, March 19th at 7pm
The Bijou Theatre
EVENT DESCRIPTION: Join the incomparable Rick Reyes as he starts his yearlong residency at The Bijou Theatre. Rick will bring extraordinary guest artists to share the sounds of the world with all of our guests. You won’t be able to see anything like this anywhere! Join us monthly to celebrate our world and its glorious music.
More Info
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VISUAL ART: Mary Giehl: Rice is Life / Kim Waale: Simulacratopia (again), 2015
Housatonic Museum of Art – Burt Chernow Galleries
On View: February 12 – March 18, 2016
More Info
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CALL FOR ART: EarthFest Recycled Art Contest
Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC)
Deadline: February 26th
DETAILS:
As the recipients of this year’s Regional Initiative Grant, MDAC and The Bijou Theatre are hosting the first ever Bridgeport EarthFest this spring (yay!). The celebration includes a juried, RECYCLED ART CONTEST. First place $1000, Second place $500, Third place Art Supply Gift Cards for up to $400. The Application deadline is February 26th. If you’re interested please read and fill out the attached forms and get them to MDAC via fax (203-690-1610), email (mdac@kennedyctr.org) or mail (MDAC, 1042 Broad St. Bridgeport, CT 06604). I can’t wait to see what you all come up with!
More Info
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CALL FOR ART: CIRCA: Digital Art Exhibit
The Nest Arts Factory
Deadline: March 19th
DETAILS:
Eligibility Open to work made with digital technology as an essential part of the creative or presentation process. Examples include digital collage or mixed media work, 3D printed work, digital painting and illustration, etc. 3D and 2D works. At this time we are not able to accept video or sound work. Entries must be original, entirely the work of the entrant and executed within the last three years and without the supervision of an instructor. Copies of existing artworks or based on copyrighted artworks are not eligible. If selected, work must be sent ready for hanging or display. There is no maximum or minimum size for submitted work, although it should fit through a standard doorway. Pedestals will be provided. Framed works will only be accepted with plexiglass – absolutely no glass. All work must be for sale. Early pick up of accepted artwork is not permitted.
Entry Requirements Artists must enter online. One $25 entry fee covers up to three entries. Entry fees are non-refundable. Each entry must have been completed within the past 3 years. Digital images must be of professional quality in jpeg format, minimum 300 dpi resolution and 1800 pixels on the longest side. File names must include the artist’s last name and the title of the work (i.e. lastname_title.jpg). The NEST reserves the right to refuse a work which has been significantly misrepresented by its entry.
An exhibition catalog will be generated using selected artwork submission images; therefore, it is imperative that artists adhere to the prospectus guidelines regarding images.
More Info
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ARTS ORGANIZATION OF THE MONTH
THE MAGGIE DALY ARTS COOP (MDAC)
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| ABOUT THE MAGGIE DALY ARTS COOP (MDAC)
MDAC, located in downtown Bridgeport, CT, is an exciting and unique new initiative by The Kennedy Center designed to provide an innovative environment where individuals with disabilities can learn, create and benefit by participating in a multi-faceted arts program.
Located in the Read’s Artspace building in downtown Bridgeport, MDAC provides unique programming that assists individuals with disabilities in creative exploration, self-discovery and expansive artistic growth using: Mixed Media, Visual Media, Painting, Music, Dance, Yoga and more!
MDAC’s artists have made connections with neighbors, businesses, universities, museums, and art councils forming innovative partnerships to celebrate the universal language of art.
This Day Support Option program is designed for artists with disabilities ready to take the step to full participation in the arts both independently and collectively with peer artists and artists in the community. The candidates should have a strong commitment and interest in arts and a sincere desire to engage in the art making process.
If you are interested in a tour or learning more about this program please contact: the Program Manager by email or at 203-690-1609. |
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EARTHFEST 2016
DATE: APRIL 21 – EARTH DAY
The Kennedy Center’s Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC) and the Bijou Theatre are very pleased to announce that we have received a Regional Initiative Grant to spearhead a Bridgeport EarthFest celebration that will bring all sectors of the community together to learn, experience and celebrate Earth Day through various art forms. The genesis of this project originated last year when MDAC artists created sculptures, weavings, and collaborative art from recyclable materials. These works were exhibited in an art show and the public was invited to a reception in the MDAC gallery (located in the former Read’s building). The project’s success and the excitement it engendered spurred us to expand this concept and reach out to the community-at-large to engage in an Earth Day commemoration. This year’s vision is to sponsor several opportunities for local artists to create and display recyclable art and for other community members to join together creating art, interacting and learning from each other. With the understanding that this project may grow and evolve, current project activities include:
- A recyclable art exhibit by MDAC artists at the Bijou.
- A recyclable art “contest” where participants works will be showcased at various partnering businesses in downtown Bridgeport.
- A variety of Earth Day workshops on April 21st for community members and artists of all ages as well as a celebration on McLevy Green with tai chi, drumming circle and more.
- A community-wide “ribbon tying” symbolizing connections and intentions.
A culmination of EarthFest activities with a walk around the community culminating in a free celebration with music and awards at the Bijou.
The overall goals of Bridgeport EarthFest are:
- Through collaboration and the efforts of a diverse community, work toward raising awareness and creating a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly Bridgeport through the arts.
- Bring community members together to share resources, knowledge, expertise and promote social relations broadening the definition of an inclusive model.
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CALL FOR ART: EarthFest Recycled Art Contest
Maggie Daly Arts Coop (MDAC)
Deadline: February 26th
DETAILS:
As the recipients of this year’s Regional Initiative Grant, MDAC and The Bijou Theatre are hosting the first ever Bridgeport EarthFest this spring (yay!).
The celebration includes a juried RECYCLED ART CONTEST. First place $1000, Second place $500, Third place Art Supply Gift Cards for up to $400. The Application deadline is February 26th.
If you’re interested please read and fill out the required forms on the MDAC website and get them to MDAC via fax (203-690-1610), email (mdac@kennedyctr.org) or mail (MDAC, 1042 Broad St. Bridgeport, CT 06604). I can’t wait to see what you all come up with!
More Info
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